The bill appropriates a total of $4.4 million from the general fund to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027. This funding is designated for a grant to Community Mediation Minnesota to establish and administer a statewide housing mediation program aimed at supporting both renters and residential rental property owners. The program is designed to provide a range of housing dispute resolution services, enhance awareness and access to these services, and specifically address the needs of vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Key components of the program include offering eviction prevention and mediation services, partnering with culturally specific organizations for training, and increasing the diversity and cultural competency of mediators. Additionally, the program will integrate mediation services with other support systems, such as legal assistance and court services, and will focus on developing evaluation tools to ensure effective outcomes. Overall, the bill aims to create a comprehensive framework for resolving housing disputes and promoting stability within the community.